Both dresses are gorgeous, but I agree with everyone else, you need to go with whichever one you see yourself in on your big day! (I would vote for #2 though, just bc of the thought of 30lbs in the hot sun....)
I was wondering about them too... I've seen them, but never tried one on. Not sure if they actually make a difference. Would be nice if they did...always bugs me when my rings move around.